Capsule endoscopy is a procedure that involves swallowing a small capsule the size of a large vitamin pill, and inside the pill, there is a tiny camera that takes pictures of the small intestine as it passes through. The pictures are then sent to a small recording device that you have to wear as a belt on your body. This will allow your gastroenterologist to view and examine the images, providing useful information regarding your small intestine.
When this procedure is done, you will be given a glass of water to take with the pill. You will not feel the capsule move through your digestive tract.
Who Needs a Capsule Endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopies can help rule out possible conditions, as well as make an accurate diagnosis for issues such as:
- Early signs of gastrointestinal cancer
- Abdominal pain
- Crohn’s disease
- Celiac disease
- Unexplained bleeding
- Ulcers
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, then a capsule endoscopy may be the procedure for you to help rule out certain conditions and provide a diagnosis. Contact today to schedule an appointment with a capsule endoscopy specialist in Thousand Oaks!
Are Capsule Endoscopies Safe?
Capsule endoscopies are generally safe. Very rare complications may include bowel obstruction. For instance, if the capsule is stuck in a narrow passage, this can result in bowel obstruction. If you are experiencing bloating, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, or trouble swallowing after the procedure, contact your gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks as soon as possible.